The Role

The Role

We have exciting opportunities for qualified Planning Officers within our Development Management Teams based in both Richmond and Wandsworth taking personal responsibility for dealing with planning applications, pre-applications and appeals as required. With excellent communication skills you’ll assume responsibility for effective negotiation and resolution, to ensure outcomes that reflect the Council’s wider positive objectives and policies of promoting high quality and innovative development while conserving the historic character of both Boroughs.

Who are we

Wandsworth is a thriving Inner London Borough on the southern banks of the River Thames that is steeped in a diverse history.  The borough features landmarks such as the iconic Battersea Power Station, Ram Brewery and Clapham Junction Station, and is acknowledged for its famous green spaces such as Wandsworth and Clapham Commons, Putney Heath and the Grade II* listed Battersea Park.   The borough is also comprised of a rich mix of vibrant and diverse neighborhoods including Battersea, Tooting, Putney and Balham.   The planning team has a reputation for working proactively with developers and local community to bring forward innovative, high quality developments, including in the Nine Elms Battersea Opportunity Area, Wandsworth Town, Battersea Riverside and the Le Corbusier inspired Alton Estate.

Richmond is arguably London’s most attractive borough with the River Thames running for over 10 miles through the borough, linking Hampton Court Palace, Richmond and Twickenham Town Centres and Kew Gardens with London.   Richmond boasts Royal Parks and open spaces, historic houses, vibrant town centres bursting with life, as well as being the home of English rugby.  With major developments on the horizon, there are exciting opportunities to broaden your experience in such a unique environment. 

The London Boroughs of Wandsworth and Richmond upon Thames present a unique opportunity to be part of a sociable and supportive team who are working together to create an effective shared staffing arrangement across both boroughs.

Who are you

The ideal person for one of these roles will hold an RTPI accredited planning qualification and be able to demonstrate knowledge of Development Management although direct experience is not essential, it would be desirable. You’ll have the ability to read and assess plans, write accurate and concise reports, as well as meet tight deadlines. You’ll have good knowledge of planning legislation and policy at local, regional, and national levels.   You’ll have excellent communication and customer-care skills, the ability to work flexibly, as part of a busy and high performing team, while we will provide you with opportunities to undertake relevant training to help you develop in your role and further progress your career. Please express in your accompanying statement if you have a preference over working in Richmond or Wandsworth.

If you would like to discuss the posts, please contact Nick Calder,  Nick.calder@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk or Robert Angus, Robert.Angus@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk

In return, we can offer you working arrangements that will enhance your work-life balance.  These include, home working (dependent on service need) and a generous holiday allowance of 31 days plus bank holidays. 

In addition, we offer a range of staff benefits such as membership of the Local Government contributory pension scheme, childcare vouchers, new technology scheme, interest-free loans on annual travel cards, discounts at many leisure activities, restaurants, shops, and other establishments. A wide range of developmental opportunities are also offered.

Richmond and Wandsworth are currently reviewing our pay, reward and benefits framework, in partnership with Trade Union colleagues. We are developing different options that make sure we have a fair and transparent system in place.

Closing Date:  14^th July 2019

Useful Information:

The closing date is given as a guide. We reserve the right to close this vacancy once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Therefore, it is strongly advised that you complete and return your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are committed to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone. We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and developing a culture that values differences, recognising that employees from a variety of backgrounds bring important and positive contributions to the Councils and can improve the way we deliver services. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer.

Important Information:

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils